Be a Smart College Shopper:
- Don’t overbuy your college tuition.
- Know that a low tuition doesn’t mean a low quality of education.
- Don’t buy solely based on a brand name or random statistics.
- Avoid “impulse buying” – geography, alma mater, etc.
- Avoid “dumb shopping” – buying based on name of university and not based on the program. Some unknown colleges/universities can have some incredible programs.
- Avoid admission myopia – concerned only with getting into a college but not as concerned as getting out. How long will it take you? How will you handle work?
- Know what true 4 year cost of college is. You need to know the all-in costs – tuition AND fees, room and board, miscellaneous expenses, travel costs, etc.
- Make sure to do some comparison shopping.
- Avoid depending solely on college-wide stats.
- Ignore college rankings and don’t rely on college guides – conflict of interest.
- Be extra careful when pursuing community college option as a way to save money. Sure they can be a great option but just make sure you’re getting what you want.
- Know what your community college can do for you.
- Stay involved AFTER you’ve made your purchase. Parents need to stay involved.
- Find value by focusing on elements of learning.
- Find a professional college planner.